Shillong, Aug 12: Marking the 80th Independence Day of India, Lok Bhavan in Shillong will throw open its gates to citizens and visitors on August 15 and 16, offering two days of culture, heritage and community participation.
The Raj Bhavan premises, now rechristened Lok Bhavan to signify the institution’s transition from “the house of the ruler” to “the house of the people,” will be accessible free of charge from 1:30 PM to 8:00 PM on August 15, and from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on August 16.
The celebrations have been curated to reflect India’s diversity and Meghalaya’s own traditions. Cultural troupes from across the country will perform through the day. Rajasthan will present the vibrant Bhawai and Kalbelia folk dances. From Jammu & Kashmir, audiences will see Dogri, Kashmiri, Gojri and Pahari performances, along with a composite Hindi presentation depicting the region’s heritage. Karnataka will be represented by Bharatanatyam in a segment titled “Classical Resonance” and by a troupe from Karnataka Sangha, Mandya.
Representing the host state, artistes from Meghalaya’s Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities will showcase indigenous songs and dances. The patriotic mood will be heightened by a performance from the Military Band of the Assam Regimental Centre.
Alongside the stage programmes, Lok Bhavan will host exhibitions on agriculture, floriculture, horticulture and allied sectors, featuring products, technologies, orchids, traditional artefacts, manuscripts and handicrafts. Food stalls serving local Meghalayan cuisine and other popular dishes will also be set up, with select items available for sale.
Each evening, the Lok Bhavan building will be illuminated in the tricolour, lending a festive glow to the celebrations and underscoring the spirit of unity that defines the occasion.
Officials said the public opening is intended to reinforce the ethos behind the renaming of Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan — an institution that belongs to the people and stands for openness and inclusiveness.
Entry to all events and exhibitions will be free.
